Asparagus Pistachio & Feta Salad with Lemony Shallot Dressing
A bright, crunchy, refreshing spring-inspired Mediterranean salad featuring tender asparagus, creamy feta, toasted pistachios, and fresh herbs. It’s tossed in a zesty lemon-shallot dressing that adds the perfect acidity and aroma. Light, nourishing, and ready in minutes — great as a side or a full meal with added grains or protein.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook (blanching asparagus): 4 minutes
Total: 14 minutes
🥬 Ingredients
For the Salad
1 lb asparagus, woody ends trimmed
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
⅓ cup roasted pistachios, chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
¼ cup fresh mint, chopped (optional but amazing)
1 small shallot, thinly sliced (or red onion)
For the Lemony Shallot Dressing
1 ½ tbsp fresh lemon zest
3 tbsp lemon juice
1 small shallot, finely minced
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp honey or maple syrup
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
🍽 Instructions
1. Prepare the Asparagus
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the asparagus and blanch for 3–4 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender.
Drain and transfer immediately into an ice bath to stop cooking.
Pat dry and cut into 1–2 inch pieces (bite-size).
2. Make the Lemony Shallot Dressing
In a bowl, whisk together: lemon zest, lemon juice, minced shallot, Dijon, salt, pepper, and honey.
Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking until emulsified and creamy.
3. Assemble the Salad
In a bowl, combine asparagus, parsley, mint, and sliced shallot.
Pour the dressing over and toss gently.
Add pistachios and feta last so they stay crisp and creamy.
Season with extra lemon or salt if needed.
💡 Tips
Turn it into a meal: Add cooked quinoa, couscous, or farro.
Add protein: Grilled chicken, shrimp, chickpeas, or boiled eggs.
Make it dairy-free: Use vegan feta or skip entirely.
Make ahead: Prep asparagus and dressing separately; mix before serving.
Keep pistachios crunchy: Add them right before serving.
❄️ Storage
Lasts 2 days in the fridge.
Keep pistachios separate until ready to eat.
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Can I add greens?
Baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens work beautifully.
Can this salad be served warm?
Yes — toss warm asparagus with the dressing for a more aromatic version.
What can I use instead of pistachios?
Almonds, walnuts, or pine nuts are perfect substitutes.
ℹ️ Nutrient Amount
Calories ~230 kcal
Carbs 9 g
Protein 7 g
Fat 18 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 3 g
Sodium 260 mg